As a young teacher, qualified with a B.Mus.(Ed.) and working as a music teacher, I wanted to make an impact on children’s lives. However, the obligations of institutionalised learning – exams, assessments, admin, etc. – seemed to get in the way of seeing significant and long-lasting changes in my students. I felt stifled by the systems and wanted to take full control of the direction of my teaching.

One average weekend in 1998, paging through the local weekend newspaper, I came across an ad which was titled “Teacher Unique Opportunity”. Curious, I followed up. Phone calls, questions, interviews and applications followed, and I found myself approved to own a franchise in the very field about which I was so passionate – children’s development! Having gained invaluable experience in stage and production work as a music teacher, I was set up perfectly to step into this incredible opportunity. I received my training from Helen O’Grady herself in Perth, Australia. What a privilege to carry this incredible training with me back to South Africa!

Nearly three decades later, I have had the privilege of seeing tens of thousands of children and teens across South Africa empowered and set up for success in life. Through our unique, developmental drama programme, we build confidence and communication skills, giving young people a voice to express themselves, and to overcome shyness and a lack of belief in themselves. Now the South African Franchisor of this incredible organisation, I train and support Helen O’Grady Drama teachers and principals across the country to do the same. We have 15 branches countrywide, with more than 120 studio locations.